Stewart Smith

University of Edinburgh, National Microelectronics Institute

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About

Stewart Smith’s research lies at the intersection of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), microfluidics, and bio-inspired robotics. His most significant contribution is the development of a wireless-driven MEMS pond skater—a silicon-based swimming robot that mimics the water strider’s ability to float and move on liquid surfaces using surface tension. By integrating electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) technology for propulsion, Smith demonstrated a compact device measuring just 6×9 mm with a thickness of 380 μm. His pioneering work, published in 2009, has garnered 23 citations and established a novel approach to wireless actuation in micro-robotics. The 2008 precursor paper, with 2 citations, laid the groundwork for this innovation. Smith’s achievements highlight his ability to merge fundamental physics with practical engineering, offering a scalable platform for applications in environmental monitoring, micro-manipulation, and autonomous liquid-surface exploration. His work continues to inspire researchers in MEMS and bio-inspired design, showcasing how miniaturized systems can achieve complex locomotion through clever exploitation of interfacial phenomena.